Ledyard McDonald's evacuated after car strikes gas meter

Ledyard — The McDonald’s restaurant on Route 12 was evacuated and closed for a time after a vehicle entering the drive-through lane veered into the building and struck the natural gas meter shortly after midnight Saturday, Ledyard police and fire officials said.

Police arrested Xavier Libby, 23, who was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Police provided two addresses for Libby: 68 Thermos Ave., Apt. 327, Norwich, and the Naval Submarine Base in Groton.

Police said Libby drove a GMC pickup truck through the McDonald’s drive-through and struck the building and gas meter as he was exiting.

Ledyard police, Ledyard Fire Department and Gales Ferry Fire Department responded to the incident. The restaurant was evacuated and Yankee Gas was called to secure the gas line to the building. The restaurant was closed until gas service was restored, officials said.